Erik ten Hag could be set for a sensational return to Ajax after head coach John Heitinga was sacked. The Dutch manager has been out of work since he was sacked by Bayer Leverkusen after just two official matches.
But now, he is once again being connected to the club where he built his reputation as one of Europe’s top coaches. Erik ten Hag’s time at Ajax between 2017 and 2022 was a huge success and made a memorable Champions League run to the semi-finals in 2019.
His tactical approach and ability to nurture young players made him a beloved figure among fans and an important contributor to Ajax’s modern success story.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that discussions are underway in his verified X handle. He posted:
Understand Erik ten Hag has been approached by Ajax over possible return to the club as Heitinga got sacked.
Talks ongoing but no decision yet by Erik ten Hag, who already didn’t advance in talks with Wolves.
One of Ajax’s disastrous games while under John Heitinga was the UEFA Champions League match against Inter Milan where they were defeated 2-0. Ajax is currently 4th position in the Eredivisie League with 20 points from 11 games.
They are 8 points behind Feyenoord and PSV so they are eager to find their way to the top again, both in Netherlands and European competitions.
Ajax had also suffered a mind blowing 5-1 defeat from Chelsea at Stamford bridge which was a tough one for their fans.
Furthermore, if Ten Hag returns to Ajax, he could work with Wout Weghorst again, a striker he managed at Manchester United. Weghorst had joined Ajax in 2024 from Besiktas and Hoffenheim.
Although no decision has been made, going back to Ajax will be like coming back home and might just be exactly what the team needs to get back on track.
